This detailed comparison between HDFC Securities and Upstox provides insights into their brokerage charges, account opening fees, trading platforms, investment options, and more. Whether you’re an investor seeking a full-service broker with research support or a trader looking for cost-effective solutions, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
About HDFC Securities
HDFC Securities, incorporated in 2000, is one of India’s leading full-service stock brokers and a subsidiary of HDFC Bank. It offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, IPOs, commodities, and more. The company is SEBI registered and a member of BSE, NSE, MCX, CDSL, and NSDL. With an extensive branch network and multiple trading platforms, HDFC Securities provides a seamless trading experience.
About Upstox
Upstox is a technology-driven discount broker founded in 2012. It offers low-cost trading across multiple segments, including equities, commodities, currency, futures, and options. Backed by investors such as Ratan Tata and Kalaari Capital, Upstox provides a feature-rich trading experience via platforms like Upstox Pro Web and Upstox Pro Mobile. Its affordable pricing model has made it a preferred choice for traders looking for cost-effective solutions.
HDFC Securities Vs Upstox: Key Differences
| Feature | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Broker | Full-Service Broker | Discount Broker |
| Exchange Membership | BSE, NSE | BSE, NSE, MCX |
| Year of Incorporation | 2000 | 2012 |
| Number of Branches | 270 | 4 |
Account Opening & AMC Charges
| Charge Type | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Account Opening | Rs 999 | Rs 0 (Free) |
| Trading Account AMC | Rs 0 | Rs 0 (Free) |
| Demat Account Opening | Rs 0 | Rs 0 (Free) |
| Demat Account AMC | Rs 750 | Rs 150 |
Brokerage Charges
| Segment | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Delivery | 0.32% | Rs 20 per order or 2.5% (whichever is lower) |
| Equity Intraday | 0.032% | Rs 20 per order or 0.05% (whichever is lower) |
| Equity Futures | Rs 20 per trade | Rs 20 per order or 0.05% (whichever is lower) |
| Equity Options | Rs 20 per trade | Rs 20 per executed order |
| Currency & Commodity Trading | Not specified | Rs 20 per executed order |
Margin (Leverage) Comparison
| Segment | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Delivery | 1x | 1x |
| Equity Intraday | 5x | 5x |
| F&O (Equity, Currency, Commodities) | 1x | 1x |
Features & Trading Platforms
| Feature | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| 3-in-1 Account | Yes | No |
| Automated Trading | No | Yes |
| Charting & Analysis | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Trading App | Yes | Yes |
| Trading Platforms | ProTerminal, Blink, smallcase, Digify | Upstox Pro Web, Dartstock, NEST Trader, Fox Trader |
Research & Reports
| Feature | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Reports | Yes | No |
| Free Trading Tips | Yes | No |
| Quarterly Result Analysis | Yes | No |
| News Alerts | Yes | No |
Investment Options
| Investment Type | HDFC Securities | Upstox |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks/Equities | Yes | Yes |
| Commodities | Yes | Yes |
| Currency | Yes | Yes |
| Mutual Funds | Yes | No |
| IPOs | Yes | Yes |
| Bonds/NCDs | Yes | No |
Pros & Cons
HDFC Securities
Pros:
- Offers a 3-in-1 account (integrated with HDFC Bank)
- Provides extensive research and advisory services
- Strong branch presence across India
Cons:
- High brokerage charges
- Requires an HDFC Bank account for seamless transactions
- No margin trading for delivery trades
Upstox
Pros:
- Low-cost trading with Rs 20 per trade brokerage
- Feature-rich trading platform with advanced charting
- Offers margin trading facility
Cons:
- No 3-in-1 account facility
- Does not provide research reports or advisory services
- Charges additional fees for call-and-trade orders
Conclusion
HDFC Securities and Upstox cater to different types of investors. HDFC Securities is suitable for those looking for a full-service broker with research support and a seamless 3-in-1 account. Upstox, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for cost-conscious traders who prefer a technology-driven discount brokerage model with flat brokerage rates.
Which one should you choose? If you need research insights and premium trading tools, go with HDFC Securities. If you prefer low-cost trading with advanced trading platforms, Upstox is the better option.